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Books / University of North Texas Press

The Personal Correspondence of Sam Houston. Volume II

1846–1848

Edited by Madge Thornall Roberts

Volume II of Sam Houston’s personal correpondence continues the four-volume series of previously unpublished personal letters to and from Sam Houston. This volume begins March 6, 1846, as Houston leaves Texas to take his place in the U. S. Senate. Included in his letters are comments on national politics and life in Washington, D. C., descriptions of politicians and their wives, and his observations on generals of the Mexican War. New information sheds light on his feelings towards being a candidate for the presidency. Family letters give a picture of life on Texas plantations during the mid-1800s. The letters end August 10, 1848, after problems with Oregon have begun and the Mexican War has ended.

Madge Thornall Roberts is the author of the award-winning Star of Destiny: The Private Life of Sam and Margaret Houston and editor of The Personal Correspondence of Sam Houston, Volume I: 1839–1845, and contributed to the research and design of “The Wall of History,” a permanent exhibit on the grounds of the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas.

What Readers Are Saying:

“Writing to people he knew and assuming confidentiality, Houston was unrestrained in his candor in discussing affairs of state and other aspects of his life and career. . . . When completed, the series will be a major addition to the Texas bibliography and an invaluable research tool for years to come. It is a must acquisition for any library with a Texas collection or anyone interested in gaining insight into the thinking of one of Texas’ most important figures.” --Austin American-Statesman

“The collection describes an affectionate marriage, geographic places, individuals, health matters, and events. In his letters he denounced military combat, sought to avoid liquor and swearing, and tried to become a better Christian. The volume provides some useful details on yeasty Texas politics, ranging from Houston’s gubernatorial career to the battle over the location of the republic’s capital. But social history, not political history, is the center of this collection.” --Choice

“The letters provide much information on manners, dress, medical practices, transportation, the weather and housing, family life and the expectations husbands and wives were expected to meet. . . . In collecting and editing these letters, Roberts has made an invaluable contribution to Texas history by unveiling the very ‘personal’ Houston which to a great degree was concealed by his public persona.” --Roundup Magazine